One of the biggest needs from the transfer portal once the 2025 season concluded was the linebacker position. FSU eventually retained Omar Graham Jr. after he entered the transfer portal, but they needed more experience and production at the position.
FSU linebackers coach John Papuchis left for a job elsewhere, and Florida State elevated FSU legend Ernie Sims to the position after serving as an assistant linebackers coach. It didn’t take long for the move to pay off.
Sims was credited as the main reason that Southern Mississippi linebacker Chris Jones chose the Noles after first committing to Ole Miss. Jones spoke with the media about the transfer process in his first interview with the media on Wednesday:
FSU needs Jones to elevate this linebacker unit back to the days of peak Ernie Sims
Jones had incredible production at Southern Miss, totaling 135 tackles, 9.5 tackles for a loss, and 3.5 sacks in 2025. He also had two passes broken up and a forced fumble.
Jones has two years of eligibility remaining and should pair well with Graham Jr., Blake Nichelson, Mikai Gbayor, Caleb LaValle, and freshmen Izayia Williams and Karon Maycock.
Jones elaborated that he’s always had a knack for the ball and likes to play with a lot of physicality. That checks, because he’s listed at 6’1” and 235 pounds.
He looks physically mature for a guy with only two years of college under his belt.
Jones went on to mention how Sims has impacted the group since he arrived, saying, “I’m test your will to today,” during Tour of Duty workouts.
FSU linebackers have been missing that aggressive nature from the days of Ernie Sims. Jones is the type to help bring that back, along with Sims as the coach. As long as they stay healthy, I think we'll see an improved linebacker unit in 2026, as long as the defensive front does their part.